Attending the EU-African Union summit in Brussels, Prime Minister Griagos Mitsotakis released a statement on the Ukraine crisis.
Please specify the following:
“Before the start of the EU-Africa summit, we had the opportunity to discuss developments in Ukraine.
In the event of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, we reaffirm our full solidarity, our support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and our commitment to respond in a coordinated manner.
At the same time, however, we reaffirmed our commitment to dialogue and to open all communication channels with Russia, either through the Normandy format or through the OSCE or through the bilateral relations that EU member states may have with Russia.
Besides, Greek Foreign Minister Nicos Dentias will hold talks with his Russian envoy in Moscow tomorrow, where he will reaffirm the country’s position on the position of all EU member states. As you know, Greece is very interested in the development of the region – because there are tens of thousands of people of Greek descent living in Ukraine.
In a little while we will have the opportunity to discuss in 2030 the framework of EU-Africa cooperation with the leaders and governments of African countries. Greece is a country bordering Africa, traditionally. Close relationship with Africa. At the same time it is a country that is not burdened by the colonial past, so our ability to expand our business in Africa is very important.
I will have the opportunity to explain to my colleagues about the many important interconnected efforts between the African continent and Europe, especially in the field of energy. I am particularly referring to the power cable that connects Egypt with Greece, as a result of which Africa connects with Europe, so that the electricity generated by the sun is much cheaper than the electricity produced by Africa in Europe.
We have the opportunity to discuss only one aspect of the issues this afternoon and tomorrow morning..
When asked about the recent expansion with Russia, the Prime Minister noted:
“We reaffirm the unity of the European Union to meet these challenges. At the same time, we want to keep all diplomatic channels open. We expect the best, but we are also prepared for the worst.
